This article shows you how to use the add-on Optimization & Costs / CO2 Emission Estimation to estimate the model costs. Furthermore, it shows you how to optimize parameters based on minimum cost when working with parameterized models and blocks.
Structures in RFEM 6 can be saved as blocks and reused in other RFEM files. The advantage of dynamic blocks with respect to non-dynamic blocks is that they allow interactive modifications of the structural parameters as a result of modified input variables. One example is the possibility to add structural elements by changing only the number of bays as an input variable. This article will demonstrate the aforementioned possibility for dynamic blocks that are created by scripting.
In addition to the predefined models available as blocks in Dlubal Center | Blocks, it is possible to create new blocks and save them in the manner discussed in the Knowledge Base article "Saving Models as Blocks in RFEM 6".
In RFEM 6 it is possible to save selected objects (as well as whole structures) as blocks and reuse them in other models. Three types of blocks can be distinguished: non-parameterized, parameterized, and dynamic blocks (via JavaScript). This article will focus on the first block type (non-parameterized).
If you want to import a block with previously saved loads into an existing model, the load cases are not integrated into the existing load cases, but are added to the existing ones.
In RFEM 5 and RSTAB 8, it is useful to parameterize frequently occurring components with variable dimensions. In the Block Manager, you then can specify new dimensions and import them in a new or existing file.
Parameterized entries provide the engineer with an efficiency-increasing tool. This allows entering structural and loading data so that they depend on certain variables. These variables (for example, length, width, live load, and so on) are called parameters.
The same structures are often needed in several projects, such as the purlin with columns and braces in this example. The dimensions can be changed directly in RFEM or RSTAB by shifting the nodes.
The RF-/FOUNDATION Pro add‑on module designs single foundations (foundation plates, bucket and block foundations) for all support forces arising in the RFEM/RSTAB model. The geotechnical designs are performed according to EN 1997-1.
Lattice towers represent typical applications in steel construction. Examples of this special type of truss structure are antenna and overhead line towers, as well as columns for wind power stations, cable cars, and supporting frame constructions. The modeling can be done individually in RFEM and RSTAB by entering various tower elements. Furthermore, you can use different copy functions and parameterized input options. However, this procedure normally requires considerable effort. It is more convenient to model such structures using prefabricated catalog elements provided by the Block Manager. These elements are automatically stored in the database during program installation. Thus, you can use tower segments, platforms, antenna brackets, cable ducts, and so on as parameterized building blocks for generating diverse tower structures.
The RFEM/RSTAB printout report includes a text block function. This feature allows you to create user‑defined text blocks with formatting and heading and add them to the printout report.
The network-capable Project Manager controls the projects of all Dlubal Software applications in one central location. A table displays the important information for each model and corresponding file. Now, you can set dimension and weight units in the program options.
In addition to the standard functions, the input tables of the main program have block functions. With these functions, you can edit the data in the selected rows and columns of the table in one step.